Pupils, Catherine McKinnell, MP, builder Nick Packard, Children's Author Chloe Daykin and Mrs Jefferson in front of the new eco-classroom(Image: Craig Connor/ChronicleLive)

Gosforth students celebrate unveiling of new eco-classroom they designed and built

The new 'eco-classroom' at Gosforth East Middle School was unveiled by Children's Author Chloe Daykin in front of Catherine McKinnel, MP and the Minister for School Standards

by · ChronicleLive

Pupils at Gosforth East Middle School celebrated the opening of the newly built eco-classroom they have spent the last few years creating. The opportunity to create an environmentally-based project was given to the pupils in 2021 by Ernest Cooke Trust and Northumberland Wildlife Trust via the Green Influencers Scheme.

Undaunted by the huge-scale size of the task, the students decided to design and build an eco-classroom in the grounds of the school. The children have been at the forefront of every stage of the project’s development, including the grant application to the North of Tyne Combined Authority, and under the guidance of Branch and Bone building company were able to go ahead beginning the build in March this year.

Catherine McKinnell, MP for Newcastle Upon Tyne North, and children's author Chloe Daykin, joined students, staff and parents for the grand opening celebration on Thursday as they gathered outside for the big unveil. Headteacher Mrs Jefferson told pupils: "I am delighted to say that the classroom is now built and ready to host many years of creative, dynamic and meaningful learning. We are all so proud."

Ms McKinnell, who is also Minister for School Standards, said: “I can’t tell you how excited I am to see this. I am inspired by this school. I came to visit three years ago and heard all your ideas of eco-projects for future generations and was so impressed with your enthusiasm.

“At the time we didn't know if it was possible, but I told parliament your great ideas to make a cleaner and greener environment. You are all champions for a better environment here in Gosforth.

"I’m delighted to see it complete alongside past pupils involved in the project who have returned. Keep inspiring to make the world a better place."

The new classroom was officially opened by star guest Chloe Daykin, author of 'Fire Girl, Forest Boy,' who said: “It's such an honour to celebrate this achievement. You’ve shown what can be achieved, and it’s inspirational seeing this beautiful classroom.

"It’s powerful you’ve been able to create something with nature, and I'm excited to see what amazing things you’ll do next.”

The construction of the classroom, which is built from reused materials, including 413 'eco-blocks' made from recycled bottles, was overseen by builder Nick Packard from Branch and Bone. Nick said: "I've worked with the children on the project over the last 14 months. They've helped with all the planning and have been hands-on building the frameworks, the floor and the eco-blocks, while I built the roof."

The celebrations continued with performances from both the school choir and steel pan band. The students efforts to plan, create and build the eco-classroom is hoped to highlight what can achieved sustainably and collaboratively.

The new eco-classroom was unveiled by Children's Author Chloe Daykin(Image: Craig Connor/ChronicleLive)
The new eco-classroom was unveiled by Children's Author Chloe Daykin, right, in front of guests including Catherine McKinnell, left, MP for Newcastle North and the Minister for School Standards(Image: Craig Connor/ChronicleLive)
The new eco-classroom at Gosforth East Middle School(Image: Craig Connor/ChronicleLive)
The pupils made over 400 eco-blocks to cover the outside(Image: Craig Connor/ChronicleLive)